Faster. Less costly. Higher resolution.
Those are the advantages Bedford-based BrainMaster Technologies Inc. says its Brain-Avatar brain imaging system offers over more traditional functional magnetic resonance imaging.
BrainMaster's electroencephalographic system has a resolution of 5 millimeters, as opposed to a typical functional MRI's resolution of 2 mm. It has a response time of 30 milliseconds, as opposed to a response of up to 10 seconds of MRI systems.
The technology behind Brain-Avatar allows BrainMaster to measure in real time actual brain electrical activity, whereas other imaging techniques offer only structural or metabolic images. In turn, the system “has significant new value for neurology, psychiatry, mental health assessment and treatment, consumer research, sports, art, peak performance and optimal functioning.”
Currently, the system most often is used by psychologists to examine, assess and treat patients, said BrainMaster president Tom Collura.
BrainMaster employs 12 and sells the system for about $10,000, in comparison to the functional MRI system, which generally costs millions of dollars, according to the nomination. It's sold 40 BrainAvatar systems since being introduced to the market in September.
“We see this invention opening new markets and uses, and changing the face of mental health care due to its extraordinary speed and accuracy, economy and potential importance,” the nomination said.